California’s indoor masking order for schools will be downgraded to a strong recommendation beginning March 12, Gov. Newsom announced this morning.

In a joint news release, the governors of California, Oregon, and Washington cited declining case rates and hospitalizations as the basis for easing face covering requirements for students and staff members, regardless of vaccination status, on public and private school campuses.

While counties can still implement masking requirements for schools within their jurisdictions, we anticipate the County of San Diego will directly align with California Department of Public Health guidance.

School boards can also adopt their own masking requirements that extend beyond March 11.

We have seen conflicting information on what the new face covering guidance means for employees in school settings. The San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) is seeking clarity from state and county public health and will share additional information when it is available.

SDCOE has crafted a template letter in English and Spanish to describe the change to state guidance and allow space for districts and schools to detail their plans for face coverings moving forward.

While this announcement will be welcome news to many, others in the community may be frustrated that the mandate was not immediately lifted. This tool can assist districts and schools in developing emergency plans in response to protests on or near school campuses leading up to March 12.

While the state has updated its Guidance for the Use of Face Masks, the COVID-19 Public Health Guidance for K-12 Schools in California, 2021-22 School Year has not been updated. It is important that school leaders review the updated guidance when it is released and implement accordingly.

Thank you for all that you do. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Paul

Dr. Paul Gothold

San Diego County Superintendent of Schools

email: paul.gothold@sdcoe.net